Once Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) went out to the Musalla (to offer the prayer) of `Id-al-Adha or Al-Fitr prayer. Then he passed by the women and said, "O women! Give alms, as I have seen that the majority of the dwellers of Hell-fire were you (women)." They asked, "Why is it so, O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) ?" He replied, "You curse frequently and are ungrateful to your husbands. I have not seen anyone more deficient in intelligence and religion than you. A cautious sensible man could be led astray by some of you." The women asked, "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! What is deficient in our intelligence and religion?" He said, "Is not the evidence of two women equal to the witness of one man?" They replied in the affirmative. He said, "This is the deficiency in her intelligence. Isn't it true that a woman can neither pray nor fast during her menses?" The women replied in the affirmative. He said, "This is the deficiency in her religion."
Contextual Background
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 304 occurs during an Eid prayer gathering, where the Prophet addressed women specifically after the congregational prayer.
Primary Exhortation
The Prophet's initial warning about women comprising the majority of Hell's inhabitants serves as a powerful motivator for spiritual reform.
His instruction to increase charity (sadaqah) provides the practical means to counter this tendency through righteous deeds.
Scholarly Analysis of Cited Deficiencies
The deficiency in intelligence refers to legal testimony - where two women equal one man in certain financial matters, reflecting societal norms and protection mechanisms established by Islamic law.
The religious deficiency pertains to the temporary suspension of prayer and fasting during menstruation - a divine concession that reduces obligatory worship during this period.
Corrective Measures Emphasized
Scholars emphasize that these "deficiencies" are compensated through other acts of worship and don't diminish a woman's spiritual potential.
The Prophet's guidance directs women toward increased charity, gratitude to husbands, and control of tongue as remedies for the mentioned shortcomings.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
Classical commentators note these deficiencies don't imply inferiority but reflect different spiritual and legal responsibilities.
The temporary pause in prayer during menses is a mercy, not a punishment, allowing physical rest while maintaining other forms of worship and remembrance of Allah.